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Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce

Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini in Parmesan Sauce is a rich, creamy, and savory dish combining tender chicken breasts, perfectly cooked rotini pasta, and a luscious garlic-infused butter and Parmesan cheese sauce. Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, this comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or special occasions, delivering a flavorful and satisfying experience loved by all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless chicken breasts

Pasta

  • 8 oz rotini pasta

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Reserved pasta water (about 1/4 cup, as needed)

Other

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
  3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
  4. Build the Parmesan Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, forming a rich, creamy sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is achieved.
  5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked rotini to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Slice the rested chicken breasts and either place on top of the pasta or mix in thoroughly for a balanced distribution of protein and pasta.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for a brighter, more intense flavor.
  • Do not overcook the chicken to maintain juiciness and tenderness.
  • Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
  • Grate Parmesan cheese fresh for better melting and richer flavor.
  • Adjust cream and pasta water quantities to achieve your preferred sauce thickness.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter chicken, rotini pasta, Parmesan sauce, creamy chicken pasta, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, comfort food